Wow! I can't believe how many of you responded to my post. That?s awesome! Thanks Jeff Davis for your evaluation of the planes I listed. What you said sounds reasonable. The 1972 150, N5428Q, looks the best to me too based on the numbers listed for TT and SMOH. I actually talked to the owner today about coming and seeing it. He said a few things that I thought were odd. For instance, he seemed to be talking about a top overhaul like it was equivalent to a major overhaul. I could have misunderstood though. Anyway, according to him, it is in the shop for a top overhaul right now. I don't understand why he would be doing a top overhaul on a 0 SMOH engine but I am sure the log books and "in person" meeting will make everything clear. He hopes to fly the plane to the DFW area this weekend but I will be in the DE and PA area over the weekend. However, he is on my list to visit the weekend after next.

Bill?
Thanks for the suggestion regarding a 172. I admit, I would like a 172 but here are my thoughts on why I should stick with a 150. First, I think the 150 will be easier and cheaper to maintain and operate (gas, insurance, annuals, surprises, etc...). I have no personal experience to validate the position but it seems reasonable. Additionally, I am a low-time pilot with the majority of my flight time in a 150 so; I am familiar with flying the 150. I plan on using the plane to gain more experience, and play. Hopefully, if I can get it bought right, I will be able to sell it later and recoup something close to my purchase price. I think that is reasonable if I make a fair buy.

Don?
Thanks for the info on the plane. Good luck with your 172 partnership.

Mlb2?
To answer your questions, I live in the DFW area and my email is [email]johnwebb@objecttoolbox.com.[/email] I will contact you via email as you suggested.

Jeff?
Thanks for reminding me about the book. I have been meaning to purchase it. I?ll do it tonight. As for the ?window shopping?, I have been doing that for 10 years on and off. I?m ready to get a plane.

All?
Based on what Jeff and Bill said, it sounds like most of the planes I have found on the internet are overpriced. I don?t really know. I plan on being cautious and holding out for the right plane. My criteria follow:
  • 1973-1977 Cessna 150
  • Low TT is good, I have seen it as low as 1200 but I am thinking between 1200 and 3500
  • SMOH needs to be low
  • IFR to pursue my IFR rating
  • Radio with RNAV/DME would cool
  • I would like a pretty nice interior and exterior
  • Damage history tends to make me shy away. I am sure most repairs are fine but, I?d prefer to just stay away from damage history
  • Lost logs are scary; I want all logs from birth

Do these criteria sound reasonable?

Thanks again for your willingness to help. I am surprised by the response I received.
Happy to be a 150-152 member,

John